Goodbye July, Hello August! Affectionately known as the ‘dog days of August” it is arguably the hottest time of the year. Watauga has been fortunate so far with our temperatures, but it appears this will end as weather forecast indicate triple digits. With the many youth camps and other summer activities it is important to focus on hydration. Adults too. This is the time of the year when heat related injuries are at the highest levels. Most are preventable, so be safe. The Splashpad has been an overwhelming success this summer and is an excellent way to keep the little ones occupied, cool and SAFE.

Who is ready for school to start back up? Both Keller ISD and Birdville ISD will both start the new school year on Wednesday August 18^th.  As of now, both school districts are returning to in person education but is subject to change. Check with each ISD for registration information and any COVID related requirements. Most important, please be cognizant of the school zones and keep PHONES DOWN!

Animal Services is full. The Watauga Animal Shelter has many animals looking for a 2^nd chance to be part of a loving family. Additionally, Watauga’s award-winning library as always is busy with lots of summer programs. Visit the Library Facebook page for details and look for the Mayor’s Book Club to be starting back up soon. The City’s Community Center also has lots of programs and activities.

On the economic side of things Waffle House has opened on Rufe Snow Drive (Mayor ProTem Neal brags on their biscuits and gravy). Coco Shrimp is opening a storefront on 377 at the old Zoe’s site. As an interim they have their food truck set up and serving some great shrimp.

Lastly, I must mention the outstanding 4^th of July fireworks celebration featuring the “100 drone show”. It was facilitated by the Northeast Chamber of Commerce with support from the Cities of Watauga, Haltom City, North Richland Hills and Richland Hills. In case you missed it you can view the video at HTTPS://www.netarrant.org/family-4th.html.